
These Doritos mozzarella sticks combine the addictive crunch of flavored chips with gooey, melted cheese to create an irresistible appetizer that's sure to be the talk of any gathering. The genius combination takes classic mozzarella sticks to a whole new level of flavor and fun.
I discovered this recipe while experimenting with leftover Doritos, and it's since become my most requested party appetizer. The way the cheese pulls into perfect strings while the coating stays crispy is absolutely magical.
Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips
- String cheese: Full-fat provides best melting
- Doritos: Crush finely for best coating adhesion
- Eggs: Room temperature for better coating
- Flour: All-purpose creates best initial coating
- Oil: Choose one with high smoke point
- Dipping sauces: Prepare variety for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Perfect the Coating
- Crush Doritos to fine, even crumbs
- Set up dredging station in proper order
- Keep one hand dry, one wet while coating
- Press coating firmly to adhere

Master the Double Coat
- Flour first to help egg stick
- Let excess egg drip off completely
- Press Doritos coating gently but firmly
- Repeat process for extra crunch
Freeze for Success
- Place on lined baking sheet
- Arrange with space between
- Freeze until completely firm
- Don't skip this crucial step
Perfect the Fry
- Maintain proper oil temperature
- Work in small batches
- Watch carefully - they cook quickly
- Remove at first sign of cheese escape
My favorite memory is watching guests' faces light up when they realize these aren't ordinary mozzarella sticks!
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare and freeze coated sticks up to a week ahead, then fry fresh when needed.
Creative Variations
I love experimenting with different Doritos flavors - Spicy Sweet Chili creates an amazing Asian-inspired version.

After countless batches of these mozzarella sticks, I've learned they're more than just an appetizer - they're a conversation starter that brings people together with their fun, creative twist on a classic favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
- These are best served immediately after frying while the cheese is hot and melty. You can bread them ahead of time and keep refrigerated until ready to fry.
- → What flavor Doritos works best?
- Nacho Cheese Doritos are classic, but Cool Ranch or Spicy Sweet Chili also work great for different flavor variations.
- → Why did my cheese leak out?
- If the oil is too hot or you cook them too long, the cheese will leak. Do a test stick first and keep the cooking time to about 45 seconds.
- → Can I air fry these instead?
- While possible, deep frying gives the best results for even cooking and proper melting of the cheese.
- → How finely should I crush the Doritos?
- Crush them to the consistency of breadcrumbs for the best coating that will stick to the cheese.